The priority of the 49ers’ needs in the 2024 NFL draft could quickly change depending on how things go in Super Bowl LVIII against the Chiefs.
However, a three-round mock draft from Sports Illustrated’s Luke Easterling offers a look at how San Francisco might attack the draft out of the No. 32 spot after winning the Super Bowl.
The result of the 49ers’ four selections in the top three rounds is a crop of players that hit a slew of needs that San Francisco will surely need to address regardless of the Super Bowl outcome.
Here’s a look at those picks:
Round 1, Pick 32: Georgia OT Amarius Mims
Mims was limited by an ankle injury this season, but the 6-7, 340-pound tackle was an extremely productive pass blocker who has the athleticism to dominate in Kyle Shanahan’s system. He fills an immediate need at right tackle after Colton McKivitz struggled taking over for Mike McGlinchey, and it’s not inconceivable that he could flip to the left side in the post-Trent Williams era.
Round 2, Pick 64: Wake Forest CB Caelen Carson
Carson started 19 of the 36 games he played for Wake Forest and notched three interceptions with 29 pass breakups. He was invited to the Senior Bowl despite his status as a redshirt-junior. With uncertainty in the secondary next season, it would make sense for the 49ers to invest in a cornerback early on Day 2.
Round 3, Pick 95: Michigan WR Roman Wilson
Wilson is a popular choice for the 49ers in deeper mock drafts. He didn’t put up gaudy numbers at Michigan, but he brings a big-time speed element that San Francisco doesn’t have in its receiving corps. Wilson in four years with the Wolverines posted 107 catches, 1,707 yards and 20 touchdowns. He also notched 117 rushing yards and two touchdowns on seven carries. It’s easy to see him filling a productive role alongside Deebo Samuel and Brandon Aiyuk in the 49ers receiving corps.
Round 3, Pick 98: LSU DL Mekhi Wingo
Wingo joined the Tigers for two seasons after one year at Missouri. He started 24 of his 34 college games and racked up 98 tackles, 13 tackles for loss, 8.5 sacks and five pass breakups. Perhaps more impressive than his on-field production though is his off-field endeavors. Per the LSU athletics website, Wingo “took part in LSU’s Study Abroad program in May of 2023 when he joined 10 of his teammates on a 10-day trip to Senegal.” He also works in the community with Baton Rouge Food Bank, the domestic violence shelter, literacy fest, and the Boys and Girls Club, per the school. Interior defensive line depth is an issue for the 49ers, but they may wind up aiming for this position earlier given the premium they put on their defensive front.
